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Wednesday, 18 March 2015

Kate Talks Due Date During Home-Start Visit in Polka-Dot ASOS Dress

The Duchess of Cambridge visited Brookhill Children's Centre in Woolwich this morning to find out more about Home-Start and its support for children and families.

Today's engagement is one of a number the Duchess, who is eight months pregnant, has carried out this month. We hear she may carry out another one before she officially takes her maternity leave before the arrival of her second child next month (more on that further down).

The Duchess attended a briefing with the organisation's chief executive and the centre’s manager. A very interested Kate heard about the work the charity does to support families and improve their confidence.

Home-Start is a national family support charity that helps parents to build better lives for their children. Volunteers provide support and friendship to more than 29,170 families every year. They have more than 288 local Home-Starts working in communities across the UK and with families on British Forces bases in Germany and Cyprus.

Home Start

They provide universal services to families with children under five, with some services targeted at the most disadvantaged and vulnerable families in order to improve outcomes for children and to reduce the inequalities gap. Services cater for emotional and physical support, illness, disability and isolation.

Why does the organisation specifically focus on the first five years? "The five years between birth and school are vital for a child’s development. What goes on inside a family during these years strongly determines the opportunities and life chances children have. Children who are raised in a stable, loving family environment are more likely to have a positive and healthy future."

There are a multitude of ways to get involved and support the charity: click here to donate, here to find out about fundraising and volunteering opportunities and here to visit the online shop.

“We are delighted that the Duchess wants to hear about the challenges that parents of other young children can face and learn how Home-Start is helping them. Without support, the pressures caused by isolation, mental ill health, multiple births, bereavement, disability, poor housing or financial stress can have a devastating effect on families.

What the Duchess sees in Greenwich represents the incredible work that is done by hundreds of local Home-Starts up and down the country. Home-Start’s work with the Royal Borough of Greenwich at four of its 24 children’s centres is a wonderful example of how Home-Start links families into their local communities across the UK.”

Her Royal Highness then attended a coffee morning where she met families who have been supported by Home-Start and listened to their experiences. The Duchess viewed a volunteer training session in which volunteers are taught how best to offer practical and emotional support in a family’s home to help children make the most of nursery or school.

Kate admires three-month-old Franchesca.

Kate visited the on-site Together for Twos crèche to meet families and staff.

Reporter Rebecca English said Kate was "enchanted" by a card made for her by the children.

'Volunteer Christie Osborne, 49, was among those the Duchess sat and spoke to at the coffee morning.Ms Osborne said: “I told her she is beautiful and that she’s got a tiny little bump. I asked when her baby is due and she said mid-to-end of April.'

Kate received a small gift and flowers before she leaving saying 'it's been absolutely wonderful'

Kate's been on something of a roll lately, sartorially speaking, and today was no exception. The Duchess looked effortlessly stylish in a polka-dot print dress by online retailer ASOS. The Maternity Exclusive Wrap Skater Dress in Spot Print features three-quarter sleeves, a Deep V neckline and empire seam. It's available for £35 at ASOS with Free Shipping Worldwide.

ASOS

The Duchess has long been a fan of spot print dresses. Many will recall the polka-dot Topshop Florence dress she wore during her first pregnancy and of course the bespoke Jenny Packham frock she chose when leaving St. Mary's Hospital with Prince George.

As of writing Kate's dress has sold out, The Mirror reports it will be back in stock next week. Keep an eye here if you're interested in purchasing one.

We last saw the Duchess wearing the sleek black coat for a night out in Mayfair in 2012 (See our original post here). Fashion sleuths searched endlessly for the garment, however it was never identified - until today. The Palace confirmed it was made by her private dressmaker.

It was a lovely engagement. Kate thoroughly enjoys working with children and it shows in each photo. I thought she looked wonderful today, mixing the ASOS dress with her popular coat.

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Also today, Prince William accompanied the Queen at Buckingham Palace.

Richard Palmer Twitter Feed

It's the first time William has accompanied his grandmother at such an event. Reporters noted it's an important part of his royal training for his future role.

The British Monarchy Twitter Feed

Finally, As we mentioned earlier in the post, we will see Kate again before she takes maternity leave. This evening, Kensington Palace just confirmed on Friday 27 March the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge will carry out three engagements in South London.

Engagement 1 - The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge will visit the Stephen Lawrence Centre, 39 Brookmill Road, London SE8, to tour the facility and meet Charitable Trust members.

Engagement 2 - The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge will visit XLP at Christ Church, 1 Highland Road, London SE19.

XLP stands for “The eXceL Project” a charity working to create positive futures for young people from inner London boroughs. In 1996, in response to a stabbing in a school playground, the school’s headmaster asked Patrick Regan, a local church based youth worker, to come into the school and work with their students and teachers to help with difficult behavioural issues.

Engagement 3 - The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge will visit an XLP community bus and the XLP mobile recording studio on the Hazel Grove Estate, Sydenham, London SE26.
Their Royal Highnesses will view the facilities provided on the XL-R8 Community Bus Project where they will meet a group of young people from across the London boroughs who have engaged with XLP projects over a number of years and hear about some of the issues they face

These engagements are expected to be Kate's last before the baby arrives!

238 comments:

I am loving Kate's charities at the moment! It's really nice that she's focusing on charities that focus on children and art. It goes to show what she's truly passionate about. Nice to know that Brookhill is helping many families and that Kate was able to learn more about what they do and how they help.

I love her charities also! She seems really focused in help improveing the life of children; through their mental well being, installing confidence with art and sports and the scouts. I feel she is help improving Britain's next generation, and hopefully in America also!

SHe looks absolutley beautiful!! :) That dress looks so good on her!! :) Very nice flow, cut and pattern :) Looks comfortable but very elegant at the same time!! :) Love that she had a non maternity coat open when going in. Did not know she had a personal dressmaker. Probably the same person that makes alterations to her other clothes :)

She looks a little tired (very understandable) but engaged. I can't imagine how she can be hunched at the floor like that. She must be very fortunate in the placement of the baby to be so mobile. :) I love this childrens development theme that has been going on lateley in her engagements. Seems like a very worthy area to focus on and very well matched with her strengths :)

Did you guys hear that William joined the Queen for 2 audiences today? Big deal I think.

My Twitter is mostly solely about the Royal Family. I follow 10 or so people about RF, it keeps me up to date on all of the time! I don't have many followers but I'm ok w that! Beside by grandma, who just started following me!

Same as mine I basically follow royal news on twitter, give or take a few singers, it's honestly the best place to hear news first. I'm up around the time Kate has engagements and I see the pictures first on twitter. I also follow Charlotte's twitter :)

This might be one of my favorite outfits on Kate overall. A beautiful style both the dress & coat & she looks just glorious.I really hope this isn't the last appearance for awhile and we get to see her again before Baby Cambridge makes an appearance.

Not surprised that William joined the Queen as Charles & Camilla are visiting the US today.

As Charlotte pointed out there are rumors that this wasn't her last engagement. My guess is there is one or two more pencilled in but that the announcement of those engagements if they hapopen will be very last minute depending on how she's feeling/if the baby comes.

Eva, I have been wondering about that---must say I cannot remember ever hearing anything like that. Of, course there was no internet when Charles was young, but I always looked at the Court Circular in the "Daily Telegraph.

She looks very lovely today! In the one picture where she has the bouquet of flowers, you can't even tell that she's pregnant!!! I agree too that her charities are very good choices. Especially since she is a parent of younger children herself - she can surely relate. Thrilled that we may see her yet again before maternity leave. Keep us posted Charlotte and thank you for the wonderful posts this past week! You are simply amazing!

I like this outfit very much. Kate looks elegant and youthful... and not stuffy. I love polka dots on her. Everything worked well together--the dress, coat, shoes and jewelry. And she even took her coat off indoors!! I know that a lot of people will say that Kate should wear her hair up, but she has beautiful hair and it was nicely styled nice today. I think this is a very pretty ensemble… a definite winner.Betsey, NYC

You were way ahead of the news outlets, Rebecca, but now Charlotte has a photo. The Queen has been mentoring William since he had tea with her once a week at Windsor Castle, when he was a student nearby at Etoni.

Delighted that it has dawned, at last, on the "Daily Mail" that Catherine has a real interest for charities working for deprived children, whatever the reason for the deprivation. Long may she continue to give them her support.She looked lovely in the ASOS dress and the coat. Interesting that it was made by her dressmaker, as I seem to remember that was what we were told about the coat she wore for her first Christmas at Sandringham.I hope she still has another engagement, but not, of course, unless everyone is certain it will do no harm.Rebecca: I too found it interesting that William had attended 2 audiences with the Queen to meet new ambassadors.

I find this dress very youthful looking on Kate, relaxed and very appropriate. Because of the formality of the events she has to attend, her clothes are often very tailored and structured. However, this piece is just very soft, flowy, and feminine. I wish she would wear more things like this, however, it must be hard to ensure the event won't blow your dress or skirt up, etc. Lovely Kate, dress with style snd simplicity. Her hair is perfect too, very dewy and healthy. - Emily Rose, Malibu, CA

I love it that she can rock a $60 dress!! I wonder how she goes about making her sartorial choices, since she can choose from the whole wide world of fashion--anything she likes! And she hit another home run (American metaphor??) today!!

P.S. I am, of course, happy about another possible engagement soon. However, I do think it's getting close to time for her to take maternity leave. I'm predicting an Easter baby!--even though George was tardy (-:

Just as I was making my big Easter prediction, Kate announced a mid to late April due date. We'll see, won't we? haha! I did have a couple of thoughts (beware!!): Perhaps "they" are announcing late April and scheduling engagements late in Kate's pregnancy in an effort to circumvent (or at least curtail!) another loooong (!) circus in front of the Lindo wing. Also, Kate looks wonderful--still slender and elegant, but I think the baby will be big (George weighed well over eight pounds, remember.), especially if she carries it another full month.

Oh my gosh! Lynn I said the same thing down below, but it got turned into pregnant women working so far into pregnancy. But I was wondering the same thing. It would make sense in order to throw off the media and not have such a zoo out front like with George. I think it would be a brilliant idea saying the baby was due late April, but it was really mid April. It will keep some of the hounds away :)

Every time I see a Maggie Minneapolis or Maryland Moxie co I hear a WW2-era newsreel telegraph sound effect -- beep beep beep-beep beep beep-beep beep -- and imagine the announcer saying, "And now, for a dispatch from the HQ of Duchess Kate Critics Circle, where we'll hear the TRUTH about her daily doings, including the real reason behind her recent visit to a children's welfare center. Was it as long as her visit to a historic film studio? They think not! Is she secretly upping her visits in a bid to take over the world via hair extension trickery? Stay tuned for the FACTS as they see them."

:) You are both great posters but sometimes the streeeetch to make her actions as disappointing as possible wears a little thin!

Kate has really been looking amazing lately. I was one of those who kept saying "why all the dark colors to visit children" and now I think it was more of the combination of color and design that bugged me, because I find this black outfit fun and perfect for the event. Two things I find interesting. First, Kate's Downton visit has still been the longest individual appearance she's done all pregnancy. She spent two and a half hours there, versus just a little over an hour here today. She's really improved in terms of clothing choices; now I just wish her appearances would have a little more substance. It would have been nice if she could have done the reception after the Afghanistan Memorial. It would have been nice if she did more charity-related appearances in which she said something (doesn't even have to be a whole speech) in support of the charity. It would be nice if it seemed like she cared more about these charities than she does about Downton. I think she is really starting to look like a future queen now. I just would like for her to start acting like one too. Second interesting thing is that they don't seem to be concerned with Kate overshadowing Charles and Camilla touring the US, whereas she wasn't seen in public while William was in Asia. Don't know what that means; just thought it was interesting. Kate really has looked lovely the last few times we have seen her.

Given that she is eight months pregnant, maybe it's a day to day thing depending on how she feels, and the content of the engagement. Maybe the difference between adults (Downton) and children (Homestart) as an audience determine how much time is devoted to an engagement? I seriously doubt she cares more for Downton than she does her charities, that;s just a stretch on your part to assume you know what she cares about.

I think your remarks are spot on Maggie. I just read about a week's worth of comments about Kate looking so pretty at her engagements. And nothing of substance. Even here, Kate's visit is kind, but she's visiting the people that are helping the children, she's not spending her days doing the actual social work. She watched volunteers being trained, she wasn't trained. She's not going to be counseling anyone on how to deal with being economically disadvantaged. It would be hard to take someone seriously who was wearing a $6000+ watch and had two large homes to flit between in the family helicopter and employeed two nannies to help care for her children under the age of 5.

I don't think Kate realizes how it looks when she spends more time at TV studios then with charities. It's a delicate thing to have to point out to her. As an employee should you mention it to her? Or risk getting sacked for making note of it? I'm not so sure I'd discuss it with the hand that was feeding me.

I guess I don't see why you are saying she has an 'overactive imagination' for merely stating the facts. She spent twice as long at Downton than she does at her charities. It is not really far fetched to draw the conclusion that she cares more for Downton than her charities since that is where she spent the most time. She barely spends an 1-1.5 hours at her charities. It is actually a logical argument. Not really a stretch at all. I just don't think that people want to consider that that may be the case in regards to the Duchess. She spent more time at the fun activity. That is the truth, but who knows what that means. It is not wrong to hypothesis as to why.

Milo, it is an assumption on your part that she cares more for her charities than doing something fun like Downton, just as it is an assumption on Maggie's that she cared more for Downton than her charities. Lets be fair to each other here people. It is all assumptions in the comments section. Maggie said that it 'seems' like Kate cares more for Downton than her charities. She didn't say it was necessarily true, just how it appears with how much time she spent at each place. No one is more right than others. We are all just throwing out our ideas. I think people need to come down. Some people are so sensitive regarding Kate. It is okay to point out things we see regarding her, but be nice in doing so to each other. I get tired of the Kate bashing as much as I get tired of the Kate adoring that can't take criticism.

Regarding length of engagements, I think Blue Wren sums it up perfectly in her post below. It is a matter of logistics. At Downton the Duchess was in and out of trailers, various sets, watched a scene being shot, attended a reception etc. No way she could have accomplished this in an hour. She has also been known to overstay her time at charities and some forums she has attended. I don't think it is about not caring, but rather what has been set up. Also remember that the charities she has chosen are particularly case sensitive. For instance today she apparently requested to meet women who have suffered from post natal depression. This was not seen by the media as the women did not want to be identified. This indicates caring to me.

Moxie. After reading your comments for some time now, I do not think you actually understand the workings of the Royal Family. They are not employees in a normal business as most of us understand businesses. They are not going to get down and social work and counsel etc, etc. They show up, and amongst other things highlight British interests, highlight charities, raise funds for charities through endeavours such as Charles Princes Trust and W,K and H Royal Foundation. Also raising funds is only a recent activity of the Royals. One can never put what they do in the same category as what us folks consider a normal lifestyle.

Anon 23:59 I was thinking the same things you just stated, logistics, bigger group of people, etc...Oh and thank you for pointing out the behind scene...Kate meeting these ladies privately is perfect. Post Natal Depression is very real and women supporting each other through it is perfect.

If commenters are looking for substance, they will have to look beyond the Royal Family. The RF stands for duty and bringing attention to causes and British achievements.. Although the government asks them to travel and carry out certain duties on their behalf, they have to stay neutral in the political world. Charles does speak out on many issues such as sustainability and is often ridiculed for it. Some even express their concern on how his outspokenness or substance if you wish, will play out as monarch. Their substance lies in the attention they bring to causes and this is done through their support and sometimes the spoken word. Downton was not only to celebrate the success of a British show but also to bring attention to one of the oldest production studios in the country. The length of time she spent there is really inconsequential as she was still highlighting a British achievement.

In just over an hour she:1) Met with the Executive and the Manager to learn about what the organization does2) Talked with Families who've been served and played with Franchesca3) Viewed a Volunteer Training Session 4) Went to the 2 Year Old Creche and got a giant card from a group of children 5) Talked to post-partum Moms

That's about 10 minutes for each activity. I could make some comparison like she probably spent longer getting her hair done for the engagement, but that might get people's claws out. So don't think about it.

Apart from the facts that i find it interesting that, since one can't really discuss the frequency of engagements, we are now talking about it's length.

I agree that PR wise, it is not a smart move to spend more time at a TV set then at charities. But I was thinking, those visits are also quite taxing for the charity. They are limited in resources and still have to come up with a schedule full of interesting stuff.

I also agree that she should speak out more, like she recently did for the Childrens Mental Health week, but this visit was not to one of her own charities.

daan, I've worked with a lot of charities and they will do ANYTHING if it means they can raise money. Host big galas that cost a lot of money to put on, spearhead drives, try to get celebrity attention . . . you name it. I don't think they'are sitting there saying "I wish Kate wouldn't have stayed as long!"

I've made it be known in the past that I am only here for the fashion, so her duchess duties don't matter to me.

That being said, I am Team Maggie/Moxie/CuriousKat on this one. Everything can't always be about how the "duchess is perfection, yet again." Otherwise, it would get quite boring to read.

I enjoy reading the opinions of people who do care more about the clothes. And as someone who does only care about that, good points have been brought up here. It does SEEM that the duchess enjoyed Downton more. Did she? We'll never know...we don't know her. But perception is important.

And yes, as CuriousKat said people are getting to be too sensitive to any discussion that is not praising everything about Kate.

My two cents.

Oh, and cute dress. Much better than last pregnancy's polka dot dress.

It doesn't help that the media articles only focus on what Kate is wearing mostly. The headlines for this day were about her due date and the dress selling out so quickly. I don't think this is going to change until Kate makes it more about the visit. And in order to do that, I believe she has to start making speeches (even her sister recently made a speech for a charity). Maybe not a full speech, but at least some sound bites. If the media has a speech to show and focus on, then the charity may get more news. At this point, Kate is just there to smile and look pretty. That is why most people only talk about her clothes, there is not much else to talk about. There is not much substance there other than a pretty woman greeting people. Until she gives us more, that is what people will focus on! Camilla, you made my point even though you didn't mean to. Kate is just there to look pretty, like a model. Although, I believe she is supposed to have more substance than a model's job. She is supposed to actually speak and bring more awareness to the charity, unlike a models' job.

Oh and Amy, I agree, this dress is very cute and much better than the short one she wore during George's pregnancy. I am very happy she has worn knee length or just above knee length dresses for most this pregnancy. Last time, she wore far too short dresses for most the pregnancy :)

I don't complain about Kate's public life. And I learned what she does by reading this blog which chronicles her life. Going to churches, tv studios, art galleries, military bases, sporting events and children's centers to see what everyone is doing isn't a job. It's what she does - but it isn't a job or a duty. She isn't leading in any of it - she "takes an interest" in others work and the press follow her around and everyone writes about what she wears.

I am always fascinated by readers who find her an inspiration. An inspiration to do what? To go to church, visit art galleries, tv studios, sporting events, military events and children's charities? Do you know who I think are amazing? The people actually putting in the time and effort to help others. So I don't think all the praise for Kate is logical. But I am not criticizing her - I'm just not impressed with how she spends her time with the public. There is no substance or depth to it.

MoxieMaybe there is one thing where you can relate to her as an inspiration, though it is a shallow one from a point of view. But she waited so long for William to achieve her goal and become what she is today, she will be queen one day. If you know what I mean, she was determined and patient and she succeded. And I do not mean in a wrong way. Personally I started following her life after the interview and their wedding. The Canadian tour made me more interested in her, since then though I am less and less fascinated. I stick to her fashion choices, sometimes I adore her look, sometimes I shake my head and looking puzzled. Since you mention quite often visiting churches,sport events, sets, military events, it is part of her job but sadly this is it right now, and we are happy she is out and about. When she is going to give real substance, make speeches we do not know maybe never maybe soon. Until people should not totally slam her or adore her like crazy.

You are one of the commenters Moxie who I enjoy reading so keep going. I also thank Charlotte for the opportunity.

Camilla, It appeared you were responding to a comment Moxie made about the amount of time spends getting ready vs. time spent working. And you did, indeed, compare her to models. At least we agree that isn't correct.

Moxie, I'm with you. I don't admire her. I find her story (and backstory) interesting, but I don't admire her or find her to be an inspiration either. I care more about her impact on the monarchy and what will happen there.

Maryland Moxie,You obviously missed the statement from Kensington Palace that the visit to the Children's Centre was to learn more about the charity. most of her recent charity visits seem to be for the same purpose; maybe to identify charities she means to support after the birth.Making a formal speech at any of them would be rather ridiculous, but she does of course make informal ones.

IMO one has to understand the history of the BRF before one is judgemental of Catherine. None of them including the Queen are going to shake up the world. The Queen is inspirational because of her sense of duty for so many years, If her life had been short as was her father's maybe she would not have been so inspirational. Similarly Prince Philip is inspirational for his longevity at the Queens side and for setting up awards.Some argue that it was inspirational that the Queens parents did not leave England during the war .Charles' has done a lot for the environment and has set up the Prince's Trust. Camilla is doing no different than Catherine. William Catherine and Harry have set up their Foundation and in time it will do what Prince Charles' trust does. None of them are going to change the world. Their inspiration comes from their ability to highlight causes and direct funds to help some causes. By following Catherine through this blog we have become aware of the tremendous work done for the disadvantaged and challenged. Those causes are inspirational and she has managed to highlight them. Her impact on the Monarchy will always be that she was born a commoner and married into the BRF. If George does become King one day, his ancestry will be traced to common roots. She will not shake up the world, but will be supportive of William and son. If commenters are looking for more, I don't think they will find it. That is not the way the BRF operates however much the critics want to critique. Just my opinion.

Well, I got it wrong on another repeat, but can’t feel too bad about it since I love when Catherine wears new outfits. This whole look is a win for me, I’d wear this dress and I’m not even pregnant. And she’s taking off her coat inside, so spring has officially sprung (or she’s like me when pregnant and feels very hot in the last trimester). Really hope we get another engagement before she starts maternity leave. And dare we hope for a sighting at church for Easter? It not being an official engagement they probably wouldn’t announce it.

Great to see William with the Queen at an official engagement, nothing like learning first hand from the best, imo.

This is easily my favorite outfit on her in months! She looks so happy and vibrant. I love the neckline and the fact that it's not ANOTHER coat. Also, I love polka dots, so that's always a winner for me! I'm glad that she's chosen to focus so much of her charitable work on the most vulnerable among us- children in need.

Not necessarily anon 7:45, if she's 5'8 and wears 4 inch heels that would make her around 6'0, William looks like he's about 6'3 so there would still be a height difference. I'm 5'10 and my boyfriend is 6'3 and I wear 4 inch heels all the time, I'm almost always the same height as him when I do. For some reason people think Kate is 5'10, but photographers have said that when you see her in person in flats she looks to be more around 5'8. If she were 5'10 and she wore 4 inch heels she would be just about even with William. But when she wear heels she's still shorter than William.And it's possible that dress came in a tall size, I don't know though. The model in the pic is 5'11 and if she were wearing 4 inch heels it would look shorter or her versus a 5'8 person in the same dress. Or the model is wearing a shorter version in the pic or she could be wearing a sample like models usually do when they have a photo shoot and when a designer makes a sample of the actual product it always varies slightly from the actual dress.

Camilla, your reference to William's height reminds me of a very old, totally unsubstantiated Diana story: When Charles began bringing the tall Diana around to family functions, Phillip supposedly remarked that she would, at least, bring some height to the Windsor line. Indeed, she did!

I thought she looked just beautiful. But, what is truly wonderful, is how engaged she is with the children. She is so tender and loving with them, while shining a large spotlight on a worthy cause. Thanks for another great post Charlotte. I look forward to them, I will miss them very much, when she is on maternity leave.

Great outfit and post! Another engagement, well actually three engagements (on one day) have been added to Kate's schedule :D the 27th of March.It's been great to see Kate carrying out so much engagements, and her outfits for the past few engagements were wonderful. I think there has been something of a PR change, I really like the fact that Kate carried out engagements before she went to Mustique this year and now while she is so far into her pregnancy.

HRH looks amazing and relaxed. Very comfy in her own skin I'd say. William looks very comfy as well- there with HM. Even though this old American probably won't be around to see him take the throne, I bet he makes an excellent King- he has his mother's heart.

There is an announcement of three engagements for William and Catherine on March 27---first to the Stephen Lawrence charity and 2 with a Church charity, Presumably that is if she hasn't had the baby before then!

It really shows what the correct length and a good style can do - I like this so much better than the spotted one from her last pregnancy that made her look huge. Love the coat too and always have. Hear there are two more engagements on March 27.

Another engagement has now been announced for Kate & William, on the 27th March visiting 3 charities in London all connected with helping older children with problems and it has been confirmed this will be her final public event before the birth of her baby, in view of the fact that she confirmed today when talking to a mother at Home Start that the baby is due between middle and late April, as most people had thought she is keeping very busy to quite a late stage. It is good that William will be with her.I thought she looked very regal at the St. Patrick day event and the outfit was lovely and todays choice of dress and hair style was just right for this event. It was good that her visit gave the charity some much needed publicity I see that Princess Alexandria is the patron but regrettably a visit from her would not generate much publicity. I do wonder whether maybe Kate was asked to visit as it covers an area she is interested in to bring the organisation to the public eye in much the same way when she visited Action for Children an organisation that the Queen is patron of.I have never heard of the organisations that William & Kate are visiting on the 27th March.A couple of weeks ago it was announced that William will Join the Queen and DOE to lay wreaths at the Cenotaph on Anzak Day April 25th and will afterwards attend a remembrance service at Westminster Abbey. Hopefully the baby will not decide to come that day if it does I wonder which event will take priority for William? Interesting thought I will not comment but I know which one I hope would take preference.

He was initially rumored to attend an engagement in Turkey with his father on that day but when that days engagements were announced Harry was written as traveling with Charles and William was grouped up with the Queen and DoE. My guess this is so that if the baby is born closely before that date he can easily skip the engagement without that engagement being without prominent royals and if the baby isn't born or was born a while ago he can go to this close engagement instead of being abroad.

This outfit is a win for me. I love her recent choices. She has really knocked the ball out of the park in her last few engagements. She is taking small steps. I am sure just going to these charities give them a lot of publicity and more people will take interest in the charity. I am taking the Scouts as an example. She joined and didn't utter a word but I saw in an article that there was a huge spike in volunteers to the scouts. We may not see the impact of her appearances but I am sure if all the charities she visited inform us there would be a lot of donations and interest as a result of her visit. She speaks to the people there. She made the recording for her charity two years in a row. In time we will hear more from her but for now I am just happy to see her looking so good and participating this late in her pregnancy. Thanks a lot Charlotte. You are the best.

Beautiful! Her makeup even seems a little softer. I love this whole outfit and love the visit. Such a worthy cause. I work with children and think her charities are just wonderful, bringing attention to their needs.

Thanks Charlotte for a very informative post. This charity does wonderful work. The Duchess rocks this look and the colourful bunch of flowers really pops against the black and white of the dress.

Re the length of the visit - these engagements are all carefully planned and have to balance a whole range of factors including the extent of disruption to services at a centre.

I've just read a range of recent media articles on the Duchess and her activities over the last month. It's interesting to see that the UK media are beginning to show the Duchess a new level of respect and the 'princess' word is starting to be used.

The consistent account about William's training is that he started meeting with his grandmother when he was around 8 years old to learn about his future role. It's hard to assess the significance of his accompanying the Queen to meet ambassadors. It may be part of the transition arrangements that are being put in place or he may just be standing in for his father. Either way good to see!

With George, Kate took about 6 weeks maternity leave leading up to his birth. It makes me wonder about this time around. I can't help but wonder if Kate is due mid-April and will only take about 3 weeks leave this time. They may do this in order to throw off the paps who went crazy for a month in front of the hospital. That way it may not be quiet as much of a zoo leading up to the birth as last time. Kate may take less maternity leave this time since it is her second birth and is more familiar with the process? It is just a thought. It will be interesting to see if she does the engagements next week with William. 3 in one day is a lot for 8 months pregnant. I wouldn't be surprised is she ends up not going. That may be why it is a joint engagement, so that if she can't accompany him, he can at least still go. Although wouldn't it be funny if we are all off and the baby comes in May :)

Prince George was late. So maybe the intention was to take around four weeks off and it turned to the six weeks. Could be you right about the joint engagement, but I think she will attend if well enough.

Kate looks great today, and I am so glad we have seen a bit more of her during the last week! I must say though, that there have been some comments about her working so late in her pregnancy. Most women do work until a couple of weeks before their due date - full time!! One day of engagements on the 27th is not what I would call taxing!

Anon @ 2:30, oh I agree most women work up until a week or so before the baby is due. I just meant for a royal it is unusual, that is all. And believe me, one day of engagements, totaling maybe 3-4 hours is not much. Especially when you are not really working, but just meeting people. I only mentioned this because for Kate it is a lot of 'work', especially while pregnant. For most women, this would be nothing :)

Some thoughts on women working up until their due date: The decision is each woman's choice, of course. However, in the US I have felt great compassion for many women who drag themselves to work heavily and tiredly until the day of their delivery, not in a celebration of enlightened social and medical attitudes, which often behooves women to use this avenue to declare their independence and freedom from the old taboos. Rather many need the money and prefer to save their precious accrued maternity leave days for time (one more day!) with the baby after its birth rather than for resting and putting their feet up beforehand. In those frequently occurring instances, I consider the choice quite self-sacrificial (essence of motherhood, I guess!) and deplore that women are faced with such a decision, which should not be necessary.

Something this blog has revealed is the difference between maternity leave in the US and that in the UK.I am rather surprised that the obviously independent women in the US have not been able (or willing) to demand better treatment.However, whether or not to stay home with children should be the family's decision and not something to be frowned on by other women.

I am not Kate adoring, just point out all engagements are not in the same context. I enjoy this blog, but do not enjoy being attacked for voicing a point of view. I don't know why people cannot voice an opinion without being singled out.It just gets too personal for something that is supposed to be constructive and fun. It's a sad thing for a blog that is so beautifully done.

Milo, I get what you are saying, however, up above you attacked someone else for saying something supposedly negative about Kate. That comes across as though only those who put Kate on a pedestal are allowed on this site. It seems as though you only want the Kate adoring comments. Which if only comments that make Kate sound perfect are allowed, then I don't think many would read them. It goes both ways and it is really hypocritical of you to say. I agree people should voice there own opinion but if you really believe that then the opposite opinion of yours, the more critical or realistic, should be dealt with in the same manner. Like I said above, I get tired of the Kate bashing as much as I do the Kate adoring. I am middle of the road with her and see both positives and negatives. But the extremes on both sides take it too far when voicing their opinions and belittling others for theirs. Honestly, you have not been attacked any more than you have attacked others for voicing their opinions. Please give yours but please don't belittle someone else's by telling them things like their opinion is a stretch. Look at yourself please before you cast a stone at others.

Kat, thank you for that comment. I couldn't agree more. Everyone's opinion is worthwhile. It's hard for us people in the middle! The haters think we're fans and the fans think we're haters. Personally I prefer "objective, incredibly well informed and very articulate posters" in our case. :)

For what it's worth, I read a blog most here would not. And there's been a battle raging which I have subtitled, "are we not haters?" because people have been saying nice things about her lately because she's done well.

Sorry Curious Kat, I do not agree with you. I totally know what Milo was saying above. It is not OK for the same posters to continually BASH Kate for anything and everything. They didn't like she was not making appearances and no matter WHAT reasons were given as to a possible reason they degrade her. Now that she has been able to increase her appearances they find the length of time to criticize. I do not see why you think it is OK for someone to constantly criticize EVERYTHING Kate does or to degrade posters to fine Kate an inspiration, but it is not OK for those posters to be criticized.

And I wish you'd rebut their statements and opinions rather than choosing to get personal. But no. You and some others don't even try to rebut. At least they mostly stick to opinions about the topic at hand.

Please explain why it is not ok for some posters to criticize Kate. I'd like to know. Are they not allowed to look at the same information you do and come up with their own take on it? Are they not allowed to communicate it? Please, enlighten me. And then, after that, please tell me how they are incorrect in their assumptions. I'd like to know that too.

Wow Anon@22:54 thanks for putting words in my mouth. When did I ever say it was okay for someone to constantly criticize Kate???? I didn't. If you read my comment above you will see that I get sick of those constantly bashing Kate and also those posters who constantly think Kate walks on water. Milo was complaining about posters attacking each other and making it personal. That is what is discussion is about. So, I am not really sure what comment you were reading. This had nothing to do with bashing Kate, but rather being allowed to give an opinion freely! People are fully allowed their opinions, but they shouldn't put each others' opinions down just because they don't like them! If you can't see the difference between giving an opinion about Kate versus belittling others for an opinion you don't agree with, which goes both ways, than I can't help you! We all have different views about Kate, but we should be civil in those opinions without tearing down the poster in the process. Anon you seem to be one of those people who only believe adoring comments should be allowed. And seeing what you just said, anyone who doesn't worship Kate should be criticized (and attacked). Milo was saying she didn't want to be attacked for making a comment, yet she attacked someone else. I am saying we shouldn't attack each other period! It is okay to disagree, but don't make it a personal attack against the person. Also, those criticizing Kate constantly are not saying she is a bad person, they are just questioning her work ethic, what is wrong with that? This is a Kate blog, so we are suppose to talk about Kate which includes positive and negative comments. It is not a blog about the commenters, so how can you justify criticizing them? Comments that attack each other, like you seem to think is okay to do against those who criticize Kate, make this not a fun experience. You say you agree with Milo, yet your comment isn't even in regards to what Milo was talking about. Her comment was a fair one about not wanting to be attacked for stating an opinion. Your comment comes out of left field and honestly had nothing to do with what we were talking about. We are talking about being civilized, not bashing those who criticize Kate.

Bluhare, once again we are on the same page :). I have both positive comments and some critical comments. I like how you refer to people like us. I would also call us pretty realistic and open to either possibility. I think it is easier to objective when you are not hard-core one way or the other.

Kat, it's nice to find someone who agrees with what I'm trying to say. If no one criticizes, then there is no room for growth. And if no one says "well done!" when it's done right, then there's no encouragement either. This is what is happening elsewhere as I was saying above. People were pretty much praising Kate for getting it right lately and one person, totally entrenched in their viewpoint, couldn't handle it and a situation not unlike what happens here ensued. I guess I don't understand how people can become so entrenched in one point of view that they don't *want* to see it changed, and won't no matter how much evidence is presented. We see it here, and then when Kate does do something well, the gloating and "take that bashers!" gets a bit old too. But it's two halves of the same whole, and I scroll past comments that make my eyes roll right off my head.

As to the people who are "constantly negative and bash Kate". I have a thought on that too (surprise!). This site has a lot people who are very vocal in their love and admiration for Kate. And it's stated all over the place. When I come to read, my positive opinion has usually been stated several times and in a few different permutations. So if I'm going to say anything it's as a counter to that. Not to bash and insult, but to foster a discussion. Unfortunately it rarely works here. And I'm also struck that some of the people who don't like Kate being bashed have absolutely no problem bashing someone else. Seems a bit hypocritical, even if this isn't a fan site for the bashee.

As for Moxie, I think she's more objective than just about anyone here. Yes, I think she posts some comments to stir things up, and people bite every single time. We are all little lab rats in her demented psychology experiment that is going to be the subject of her first book and will shoot her to superstardom. Then she'll get a talk show like Dr. Phil. And I want credit, Moxie!!

Bluhare, so nicely put. I wish people argue with each other rather than attacking each other. I read your comments every time, most of the time 99% I totally agree with you. I did not know u need support:), so I will be more vocal in the future. But to be honest with u, u stand up for yourself so perfectly!!!!;))

I've had some great conversations here with some intelligent people who have shaped my opinions on the royal family - Kate in particular. Through dialogue and careful analysis they provide some points of view that you can't get from a newspaper article trying to sell information or with political agendas. This blog draws an interesting crowd of dedicated superfans and outliers who dare to question the status quo and everyone in between. It's an International crowd too -- and that adds another layer to the tapestry -- a UK citizen and/or Commonwealth citizen can either take offense that the outsiders have opinions on their government/culture or pay careful attention to folks who are giving you feedback on how these representatives (Kate) are coming across to folks in countries you want to have relationships with for trade and military support. It is my understanding that purpose of funding this family with tax payer support is to demonstrate UK wealth and impress foreigners. Here's a message that is being sent that folks might not realized is being conveyed: The UK has lots of depressed, disadvantaged, and alcoholic people that need support - Kate has highlighted that fact. Harry has highlighted all the wounded vets the country creates. What isn't often discussed is how these people manage to get that way and find themselves in these circumstances needing support. It often comes down to economic disadvantage. Meanwhile, that's not to say I don't appreciate a finely made garment designed by an artist. I rather enjoy Charlotte's runway displays and hope she'll do some features on the designers if we hit a lull in royal watching.

bluhare, I will bust you out of prison when I hit it rich with my book - but you'll have to host the talk show because the superfans and MI6 will be looking for me. I'm not sure how long I will be in a holding cell before I crack and say the words "the duchess of cambridge looks pretty today!"

P.S. I think it adds to the discussion if the anonymous posters would share their country of origin if they were comfortable in doing so.

Bluhare says: "Kat, it's nice to find someone who agrees with what I'm trying to say. If no one criticizes, then there is no room for growth. And if no one says "well done!" when it's done right, then there's no encouragement either."

I find this entire discussion rather amusing. Who do we think is reading this blog? Certainly not Kate or anyone close to her. I'm afraid your constructive criticism and/or compliments are reaching the wrong audience. I think most of us who frequent this site are fans of Kate. Sometimes she gets it right and sometimes she doesn't. We all have different opinions, but lets not fool ourselves into thinking that our comments will make a difference.

Thanks to Charlotte, who created this site, it's a place to discuss most things "royal" in a respectful way. I don't always agree with everything that Kate and William do, but mostly I feel they are a breath of fresh air in a stodgy and sometimes uninspiring royal family.

I know Kate is not checking this website to find out whether we approve or disapprove of something she did or didn't do, or something she chose to wear. Let's not delude ourselves into thinking that anything we say here makes a difference. This is a wonderful place to chit-chat about the royals, but that's all it is, and if you really don't like William and Kate or the royals in general, there are lots of other places to join like-minded people.

Well, with all due respect, *this* American stitch in the tapestry is not so presumptuous as to think that my feedback on a fan blog is a learning experience for a UK citizen and/or Commonwealth citizen.

Naturally, it's nice to have an intelligent discussion and expand one's horizons but on this blog, more often than not, this claim does have a Trojan Horse-like quality to it.

My guess, having had four late babies of my own, is that Kate got bored last time around and decided not to take such a long prenatal leave this time. As long as she is near her hospital, or hospitals if there are contingent plans for Norfolk, she is better off to stay active.

i think she will have a baby girl i be having these though seen she glowing and baby was born in mid april or may they will have changes to april 25 engagement for charles harry and the duke as far i think prince william as the time approaches kate due date wlliam could be by her side too it impossible that baby comes in may i love the duchess look and she hands on her charity meanwhile pippa attend para snow ball http://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-3001163/Pippa-Middleton-shows-curves-tan-low-cut-maxi-dress-joins-sporting-champions-ParaSnowBall-London.html

I love the things you wrote about Home-Start UK, Charlotte, and I'm so glad this is a charity the Duchess is calling attention to. I get too wrapped up in myself and my entertainment choices, of which Duchess Kate-watching is one, and so I need to start thinking of ways to make this entertainment actually useful to my larger life. So I am thinking this is where I'll start using the things you write about the Duchess's activities to figure out ways to improve my own sphere of influence. I can start by ensuring the children in my own life get nothing but a feeling of love and safety from me. I can be more careful of the way I talk to and around them, trying to help them get the good start in life that I had. Thank you for being inspiring, Charlotte (and Duchess Kate).

I thought Kate looked really pretty and very comfortable today. I always love it when she wear a wrap dress because whether she is pregnant or not the always flatter her figure. I love wearing them too. Does that dress remind anyone else of her Issa bird print dress? I like that one too.

Someone mentioned the length being much longer on Catherine compared to the models. I looked back and her dress really is much longer. At first I thought maybe those tiny models are wearing size zeros and those the dresses are shorter but hers is substantially longer. Are we sure it is that brand? Second the working so late into the pregnancy has been mentioned several times. For most pregnant women one can work up till you give birth. Most women stop a bit before to give them time to get things ready and to avoid going into labor in the middle of a business meeting:). Sometimes women at high risk are advised to cut way back on activities. Finally on Easter, could she possibly go to a service at their country home with her family or join the Middletons for Easter at their church? Just some thoughts. Ali

I think Kate looks great on this worthy engagement. Don't understand why people visit this site if they feel she is just a wealthy Royal who doesn't get her hands dirty. The fact is she is doing very valuable PR work for these charities who need the spotlight to bring in the bacon. She is a megastar and so visiting these little charities is a great way to bring attention to them. Everyone has a different role in life -- some are on the stage and some behind the scenes -- but they are all important to getting things done in the world. It's not belittling the people who work in the charities because she is not a "hands on helper." She's bringing them what they need to continue -- awareness and MONEY.

I think the point folks are making is if she did more such as stay longer and make speeches she would bring in more money. frankly I read the post and can't tell you the charity above. It would also be great if she worked for a large charity that supports a lot of little charities where folks can give once and designate which smaller charities to give toAnything she does is great but now she is more active we see the potential she has some people want her to leverage that

So well said, Anon 20:22! Sometimes I think her critics would like Kate to sit down at a computer every day for eight hours and type! Obviously her role is to bring attention and support to those who are assisting families and making children's lives better. She has chosen a worthy role. And I believe Kate's chats with parents and leaders are far more valuable than speeches.

Are these earrings really morganite, which is supposed to be pink? If so, what are Kate's new pink ones? I am trying to keep track because I find it very interesting that Kate is gathering together a nice collection of beautiful semiprecious stones, and their popularity must be soaring. She now has citrine, green amethyst, tanzanite, and the clear and pink ones. As well as of course pearls, emeralds, and sapphires.

I hope one day Kate will get to visit the gems and minerals section of the Natural History Museum in Washington. She'll be amazed at the tremendous number of gemstones there, most of them quite unusual and beautiful. I had no idea so many minerals could be made into jewelry.

Exactly right, Anon 21:36. I think the people/families she meets prefer the one on one where she is talking WITH them rather than preaching AT them in the form of speech. And if she did give a speech, it wouldn't have an impact on the media coverage IMO; they would still focus on the same angles. The only difference (here) would be that her public speaking skills would be criticized, as we've seen on more than one occasion.

I'm also not aware of other members of the royal family giving speeches at every engagement as Kate is being called upon to do. If they did, I have a feeling critics of the RF would see it as being somewhat presumptuous. And Kate would be the first to be criticized because, given the big picture, at this point she is very much a newbie.

Well I commented earlier on the length of the dress from the models wearing to Catherine's. I scrolled through the other maternity styles from ASOS and noticed the Blue and pink one was close to knee length. Maybe the models were shortened for the photo shoot or they had a tall version. ali

I know this is a hot topic for some of you but I'm just curious if anyone knows. With 5 engagements last week (two on the 11th), 2 this week, and 3 next week, has there ever been a month other than on royal tours when The Duchess has done so many engagements? I am pleasantly surprised and hope this is just a glance at what her workload will look like after she's recovered from baby #2. For many, I'm sure this workload still seems too light but I'm sure most of us can agree that we weren't expecting this sudden pick up this close to the end of pregnancy.

Jeez Louise... sooo many of the "issues" that some folks had with Kate have been and are being addressed, yet it still isn't good enough for them; they undermine and/or dismiss the positives and still manage to find SOMETHING to criticize.

How much *potentially* productive time is spent complaining about how "unproductive" Kate is?

And the reasons given for doing so are interesting...

--People are "entitled to an opinion". Yes, and Charlotte allows people to express them. But it still amazes me that if there is so little respect for Kate, why would folks devote their own valuable downtime to this subject? Is there pleasure in negativity? This is a fan blog, after all. Charlotte delivers a quality product and does so from a *respectful* point of view (towards Kate). How sad when people come here voluntarily and do exactly the opposite.

--Folks are "interested" in the subject and they "learn." Well, that's a nice concept when it actually applies, but at this address it's sort of like a cat being interested in a mouse. Not very purrr-ty. Pardon the pun.

--We need to have a sense of humor and not take things so seriously. Yes, it's healthy to have one, but what is funny or enjoyable about constantly undermining someone? If someone did this to *us* in our everyday lives, it would be called verbal or emotional abuse. Is it okay or any nicer just because Kate is a public figure?

I just find some of the persistent negativity, and the reveling in it, to be rather sad.

Excuse me Royalfan! My comments were not meant to insult Kate. I rarely ever comment but read others constantly complaining about Kate's lack of "work". My comments were merely to point out that while no one (well at least I wouldn't) would expect her to work harder during pregnancy, she seems to have taken on more work in 2015 & in this last month than maybe ever before in such a short period of time. I don't think anyone is forcing her to do this. Now, maybe the new PR guy is helping her to plan this out & assisting her with building a new reputation, but I think it's more that she is getting more confident in her position. She definitely seems more confident. She wasn't raised in the royal family. All of this is new to her, regardless of you think her time dating PW should have prepared her. I think the Queen and those surrounding her have done a wonderful job allowing her to have time to grow into a princess and future wife of the king (things might have ended differently had Diana been given the same opportunity). I know she still has a long way to go but I think she's doing a great job! I have no ill will towards Kate or her workload. Although, I do enjoy seeing her & reading about her charities.

Tgoldin, royalfan will no doubt speak for herself, but I will just say that her comment seemed to me a general look at the constant criticism, rather than a reply to what you said. Obviously, Kate has taken advantage of a time when she feels well and William has been busy, to get some visits in, both to charities in her field of interest and to arts and industry. You simply pointed out that she has been out and about quite a bit, to the pleasure of all of us. And I agree with you that Kate is gaining maturity and confidence.

"I just find some of the persistent negativity, and the reveling in it, to be rather sad."

Does this sentiment apply when the target of the negativity is someone else, like Camilla? Because there are certainly some posters on here who never miss an opportunity to make a snide remark about her . . .

Anon 22:29, thank you for bringing that up because it gives me the opportunity to make one more point.....

It's not a secret that I am not a Camilla fan. I make/have made references to her when the RF's "current strategy" (as it pertains to W&K) has been criticized on this blog. And I strongly believe that some of the decisions of today have much to do with prior decades where she played a significant role.

I do NOT follow a Camilla blog where I go out of my way to criticize her on a daily basis. Unfortunately, that sort of motivation DOES play out here where some folks do exactly that. HUGE difference.

I guess it sells magazines, but intelligent people know that these magazines print outrageous stories. I think it's amusing that the Daily Mail is calling them out on this. The DM is known for embellishing and even fabricating stories themselves. DM is famous for quoting unknown sources. It's almost laughable. .

The thing is, after lots of decades of shopping in lots of places, I do not remember ever seeing anyone purchase one of those nutty publications that sit around beside cash registers. They are never with the serious newspapers and magazines, and everyone knows they are utterly bogus.

They have also posted statements that Carole is causing trouble in W&K marriage. That she and Michael has moved in with W&K. There also is a story posted in one of the rags that Carole had a meltdown in the waiting room at the hospital.. Just trash.

Duchess Catherine looks great in this blog post. Her looks the past several engagements has been right on target. It is nice to see her looking so well as she nears her due date. I am starting to get very excited about seeing baby no 2! I do hope she has a baby girl as I think it would be a nice way to round out the family, but the most important thing is that the baby is healthy, not the gender. I do hope she has a few more engagements before she leaves to start her maternity leave. So nice to see her at these events. Thanks for another great post on my favorite blog.

Okay really off topic, but.... Does anyone remember the last time Kate wore her L.K. Bennett Sledge pumps? I honestly can't remember. I can't even remember the last time she wore nude heels. I know a lot of people didn't like her sledge heels, but I always did. Nude is such a good color and goes with everything! Maybe they aren't as comfortable during pregnancy? Seriously, does anyone remember the last time wore them? Charlotte do you? (it would be really funny if she wore them on the 27th after I just asked this :)).

The last time she wore them was August 4 of last year in Belgium. I'm kinda glad that haven't made an appearance although they go with everything they'll just so boring. I really wish Kate would stop being so safe in her footwear choices. I've noticed she also hasn't worn boots either throughout this pregnancy she only wore one pair and they were flat. Maybe her shoes were more uncomfortable this time around.

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